X-ray CT apparatus, and injection device

Abstract

To provide a route where a contrast medium can be injected in a standing or seated subject.SOLUTION: An X-ray CT apparatus includes: a rack device; a support part; and an injection route. The rack device has: a hollow in which a subject is inserted; an X-ray tube irradiating the hollow with X-ray; and an X-ray detector detecting the X-ray via the hollow. The support part supports the rack device and moves the rack device in a vertical direction. The injection route injects medical solution in the subject from at least either an upper side or a lower side in the vertical direction in the rack device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and drawings relate to an X-ray CT device and an injection device.

[0002] Conventionally, X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) devices take images by injecting a contrast agent into the subject to add contrast to the image or highlight specific tissues. The contrast agent is injected into the subject via a tube using an injection device. At this time, if the tube through which the contrast agent passes is present within the imaging area of ​​the X-ray CT device, artifacts may appear due to the contrast agent.

[0003] To achieve this, medical professionals place the subject in a supine position on the bed of the X-ray CT scanner and inject a contrast agent into the area around the subject's elbow with their arms raised. Then, medical professionals place the subject's feet first into the X-ray CT scanner to image the subject. This allows the X-ray CT scanner to image the subject without any tubes through which the contrast agent passes being placed within the imaging area. In other words, the X-ray CT scanner can prevent artifacts caused by the contrast agent passing through the tubes.

[0004] In recent years, X-ray CT systems have emerged that can capture images of subjects in standing or sitting positions. Even with these X-ray CT systems, there is a demand for the ability to inject contrast agents into the subject before imaging.

[0005] However, the subject is in a standing or sitting position, and therefore, in the conventional method, the tube through which the contrast agent passes is placed inside the imaging region. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-065380 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to provide a route by which a contrast agent can be injected into a subject in a standing or sitting position. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An X-ray CT apparatus according to an embodiment includes a gantry, a support, and an injection path. The gantry includes a cavity into which a subject is inserted, an X-ray tube that irradiates the cavity with X-rays, and an X-ray detector that detects the X-rays that have passed through the cavity. The support supports the gantry and moves it in a vertical direction. The injection path injects a medicinal solution into the subject from at least one of the upper and lower sides of the gantry in the vertical direction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a route for injecting a drug solution into a subject in the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a gantry device according to a first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a gantry device according to a second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a gantry device according to a second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a gantry device according to a second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a gantry device according to the second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the injection device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tube connection configuration of the injection device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tube connection configuration of an injection device according to a first modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tube connection configuration of an injection device according to Modification 2 of the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tube connection configuration of an injection device according to a third modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of attachment of an exchange assisting member according to the fourth modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the replacement support member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The X-ray CT system and the injection system according to the present embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, parts with the same reference numerals perform similar operations, and redundant description will be omitted as appropriate.

[0011] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 includes a gantry device 10, a stand 20, a bed device 30, and a console device 40. That is, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 can image not only a subject P in a supine position, but also a subject P in a standing or sitting position. Furthermore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 may also image a subject P in a standing or sitting position.

[0012] 1, the rotation axis of the rotating frame 13 in a non-tilted state or the longitudinal direction of the tabletop 33 of the bed device 30 is defined as the Z-axis direction. The axial direction that is perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and horizontal to the floor surface is defined as the X-axis direction. The axial direction that is perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction and perpendicular to the floor surface is defined as the Y-axis direction. For the sake of explanation, FIG. 1 depicts the gantry device 10 from multiple directions, and shows a case where the X-ray CT device 1 has one gantry device 10.

[0013] The gantry 10 includes an X-ray tube 11, an X-ray detector 12, a rotating frame 13, an X-ray high-voltage device 14, a control device 15, a wedge 16, a collimator 17, and a DAS (Data Acquisition System) 18. The gantry 10 is also called a gantry. The gantry 10 has an opening into which a subject P is inserted. That is, the gantry 10 includes a hollow into which the subject P is inserted, an X-ray tube 11 that irradiates X-rays into the hollow, and an X-ray detector 12 that detects the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube 11 and transmitted through the hollow. The gantry 10 is supported by a stand 20. The gantry 10 is covered with a housing. The interior of the gantry 10 is the space inside the housing.

[0014] The X-ray tube 11 is a vacuum tube having a cathode (filament) that generates thermoelectrons and an anode (target) that generates X-rays upon impact of the thermoelectrons. The X-ray tube 11 generates X-rays to be irradiated onto the subject P by irradiating thermoelectrons from the cathode to the anode when a high voltage is applied from the X-ray high voltage device 14. For example, the X-ray tube 11 may be a rotating anode type X-ray tube that generates X-rays by irradiating a rotating anode with thermoelectrons.

[0015] The X-ray detector 12 detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11 and passing through the subject P, and outputs a signal corresponding to the detected X-ray dose to the DAS 18. The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, a plurality of detector element rows in which a plurality of detector elements are arranged in a channel direction (channel direction) along an arc centered on the focal point of the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, a structure in which a plurality of detector element rows in which a plurality of detector elements are arranged in the channel direction are arranged in a row direction (slice direction, row direction).

[0016] For example, the X-ray detector 12 is an indirect conversion type detector having a grid, a scintillator array, and a photosensor array. The scintillator array has multiple scintillators. The scintillator has scintillator crystals that output light with a photon amount corresponding to the amount of incident X-rays. The grid is arranged on the X-ray incident side of the scintillator array and has an X-ray shielding plate that absorbs scattered X-rays. The grid is sometimes called a collimator (one-dimensional collimator or two-dimensional collimator). The photosensor array has a function of converting the amount of light from the scintillator into an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of light, and has a photosensor such as a photodiode. The X-ray detector 12 may also be a direct conversion type detector having a semiconductor element that converts incident X-rays into an electrical signal.

[0017] The rotating frame 13 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 so that they face each other and rotates the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 using the control device 15. For example, the rotating frame 13 is an aluminum casting. In addition to the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12, the rotating frame 13 can also support an X-ray high-voltage device 14, a wedge 16, a collimator 17, a DAS 18, etc. The rotating frame 13 can also support various components not shown in FIG. 1 . The various components supported by the rotating frame 13 will be described later. The rotating frame 13 is also referred to as a rotating base, a rotating body, etc. In addition, the rotating frame 13 and the parts of the gantry device 10 that rotate together with the rotating frame 13 are also referred to as a rotating part.

[0018] X-ray high voltage device 14 has electrical circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, and includes a high voltage generator that generates a high voltage to be applied to X-ray tube 11, and an X-ray control device that controls the output voltage according to the X-rays generated by X-ray tube 11. The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type. X-ray high voltage device 14 may be provided on rotating frame 13 or on a fixed frame (not shown).

[0019] The control device 15 has a processing circuit including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the like, and a driving mechanism including a motor and an actuator. The control device 15 receives input signals from an input interface 43 (described later) and controls the operation of the gantry 10 and the bed 30. For example, the control device 15 controls the rotation of the rotating frame 13, the tilt of the gantry 10, and the operation of the bed 30 and the tabletop 33. As an example, to control the tilt of the gantry 10, the control device 15 rotates the rotating frame 13 around an axis parallel to the X-axis direction based on input inclination angle (tilt angle) information. The control device 15 may be provided in the gantry 10 or in the console device 40.

[0020] The wedge 16 is a filter for adjusting the amount of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11. Specifically, the wedge 16 is a filter that transmits and attenuates the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 so that the distribution of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 to the subject P becomes a predetermined distribution. For example, the wedge 16 is a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter, which is a filter made of aluminum or the like processed to have a predetermined target angle and a predetermined thickness.

[0021] The collimator 17 is a lead plate or the like for narrowing the irradiation range of the X-rays that have passed through the wedge 16, and a slit is formed by combining a plurality of lead plates or the like. The collimator 17 is also sometimes called an X-ray aperture. Although FIG. 1 shows a case where the wedge 16 is disposed between the X-ray tube 11 and the collimator 17, the collimator 17 may also be disposed between the X-ray tube 11 and the wedge 16. In this case, the wedge 16 transmits and attenuates the X-rays that are irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 and whose irradiation range has been limited by the collimator 17.

[0022] The DAS 18 collects X-ray signals detected by each detection element of the X-ray detector 12. For example, the DAS 18 has an amplifier that amplifies the electrical signal output from each detection element, and an A / D converter that converts the electrical signal into a digital signal, and generates detection data.

[0023] The detection data generated by the DAS 18 is transmitted by optical communication from a transmitter having a light emitting diode (LED) provided on the rotating frame 13 to a receiver having a photodiode provided on a non-rotating portion of the gantry 10 (for example, a fixed frame, etc., not shown in FIG. 1 ), and then transferred to the console device 40. Here, the non-rotating portion is, for example, a fixed frame that rotatably supports the rotating frame 13. Note that the method of transmitting data from the rotating frame 13 to the non-rotating portion of the gantry 10 is not limited to optical communication, and any non-contact data transmission method or a contact data transmission method may be employed.

[0024] The stand 20 supports the gantry 10 and moves the gantry 10 in the vertical direction. The stand 20 is an example of a support unit. More specifically, the stand 20 is fixed to the floor of a room in which the gantry 10 is installed. The stand 20 also has a connecting unit 21 that connects to the gantry 10. The connecting unit 21 supports the gantry 10 so that it can rotate in the tilt direction. The stand 20 has a first driving unit that moves the connecting unit 21 in the vertical direction and a second driving unit that rotates the connecting unit 21 around a rotation axis that is substantially parallel to the X-axis direction. The stand 20 moves the connecting unit 21 in the vertical direction by driving the first driving unit. The stand 20 also rotates the connecting unit 21 around a rotation axis that is substantially parallel to the floor by driving the second driving unit. As a result, the connecting unit 21 supports an opening in the gantry 10, through which the subject P is inserted, so that it can rotate in the tilt angle direction.

[0025] The bed device 30 is a device on which the subject P to be imaged is placed and moved, and includes a base 31, a bed driving device 32, a top plate 33, and a support frame 34. The base 31 is a housing that supports the support frame 34 so that it can move in the vertical direction. The bed driving device 32 is a drive mechanism that moves the top plate 33, on which the subject P is placed, in the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33, and includes a motor, an actuator, etc. The top plate 33, which is provided on the upper surface of the support frame 34, is a plate on which the subject P is placed. Note that the bed driving device 32 may move the support frame 34 in addition to the top plate 33 in the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33.

[0026] The console device 40 has a memory 41, a display 42, an input interface 43, and a processing circuit 44. Although the console device 40 will be described as being separate from the gantry device 10, the gantry device 10 may include the console device 40 or some of the components of the console device 40.

[0027] The memory 41 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. The memory 41 stores, for example, projection data and CT image data. Furthermore, for example, the memory 41 stores programs that enable circuits included in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 to realize various functions. The memory 41 may also be realized by a group of servers (cloud) connected to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 via a network.

[0028] The display 42 displays various types of information. For example, the display 42 displays various images generated by the processing circuitry 44, or displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various operations from an operator. For example, the display 42 is a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display. The display 42 may be a desktop type, or may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the console device 40 main body. The display 42 is also an example of a display unit.

[0029] The input interface 43 accepts various input operations from the operator, converts the accepted input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuitry 44. In addition, for example, the input interface 43 accepts input operations from the operator, such as scan conditions, reconstruction conditions when reconstructing CT image data, and image processing conditions when generating post-processed images from CT image data.

[0030] For example, the input interface 43 may be realized by a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, touchpad that performs input operations by touching the operation surface, a touchscreen that integrates a display screen and a touchpad, a non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, a voice input circuit, etc. The input interface 43 may be provided in the gantry device 10. The input interface 43 may also be configured as a tablet terminal or the like that is capable of wireless communication with the console device 40 main body. The input interface 43 is not limited to those that have physical operation components such as a mouse and keyboard. For example, an example of the input interface 43 includes an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the console device 40 and outputs the electrical signal to the processing circuit 44.

[0031] The processing circuitry 44 controls the overall operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 1. The processing circuitry 44 has, for example, a control function 441, a pre-processing function 442, a reconstruction processing function 443, an image processing function 444, and an injection control function 445. In the embodiment, each processing function performed by the control function 441, the pre-processing function 442, the reconstruction processing function 443, the image processing function 444, and the injection control function 445 is stored in the memory 41 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The processing circuitry 44 is a processor that realizes the function corresponding to each program by reading and executing the program from the memory 41. In other words, the processing circuitry 44 in a state where each program has been read has each function shown in the processing circuitry 44 in FIG. 1.

[0032] 1 has been described as realizing the control function 441, preprocessing function 442, reconstruction processing function 443, image processing function 444, and injection control function 445 by a single processor, but it is also possible to combine multiple independent processors to configure the processing circuit 44 and have each processor execute a program to realize the function. Also, in FIG. 1, it has been described as a single storage circuit such as memory 41 storing programs corresponding to each processing function, but it is also possible to have a configuration in which multiple storage circuits are distributed and the processing circuit 44 reads out corresponding programs from each storage circuit.

[0033] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in memory 41. Note that instead of storing a program in memory 41, the processor may be configured so that the program is directly embedded in its circuitry. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the program embedded in its circuitry.

[0034] The control function 441 controls various processes based on input operations received from an operator via the input interface 43. Specifically, the control function 441 controls the CT scan performed by the gantry 10. For example, the control function 441 controls the operations of the X-ray high-voltage device 14, the X-ray detector 12, the control device 15, the DAS 18, and the bed driving device 32, thereby controlling the collection process of counting results in the gantry 10. The control function 441 also controls various image data stored in the memory 41 to be displayed on the display 42. The control function 441 is an example of a control unit. The control function 441 also controls the operation of the stand 20 to rotate the gantry 10 in each tilt direction. The control function 441 also controls the operation of the stand 20 to move the gantry 10 in the vertical direction.

[0035] The preprocessing function 442 generates projection data by performing preprocessing such as logarithmic conversion, offset correction, inter-channel sensitivity correction, and beam hardening correction on the detection data output from the DAS 18. The preprocessing function 442 is an example of a preprocessing unit.

[0036] The reconstruction processing function 443 generates CT image data by performing reconstruction processing using a filtered back projection method, an iterative reconstruction method, or the like on the projection data generated by the preprocessing function 442. The reconstruction processing function 443 stores the reconstructed CT image data in the memory 41. The reconstruction processing function 443 is an example of a reconstruction processing unit.

[0037] The image processing function 444 converts the CT image data generated by the reconstruction processing function 443 into image data such as a tomographic image of an arbitrary cross section or a three-dimensional image obtained by rendering processing, using a known method, based on an input operation received from the operator via the input interface 43. The image processing function 444 stores the converted image data in the memory 41. The image processing function 444 is an example of an image processing unit.

[0038] Injection control function 445 controls the injection of a medicinal liquid by injector 70 (see FIG. 8) into subject P. For example, the medicinal liquid is a liquid such as a contrast medium or physiological saline.

[0039] Here, the injection of the drug solution into the subject P will be described.

[0040] 2 is a diagram showing an example of an injection route of a drug solution to a subject P in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. Also, FIG. 2 shows the injection route for a subject P in a standing position.

[0041] The subject P may have difficulty maintaining an upright position due to illness, injury, or the like. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 has a subject support 50 that supports the subject P in a standing position. For example, the subject support 50 is a plate-shaped member that stands approximately perpendicular to the floor. The subject support 50 is not limited to a plate-shaped member, but may also be a rod-shaped member, a combination of a plate-shaped member and a rod-shaped member, or a member having another shape. Furthermore, when the subject P is in a seated position, the subject support 50 may be a chair.

[0042] When imaging the subject P, the stand 20 rotates the connecting part 21 to rotate the gantry 10 in the tilt direction. More specifically, the stand 20 rotates the connecting part 21 so that the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 rotate around the subject support part 50 that is approximately perpendicular to the floor surface. In other words, the stand 20 rotates the connecting part 21 so that the hollow part of the gantry 10 into which the subject P is inserted faces the floor surface.

[0043] The stand 20 moves the gantry 10 in the vertical direction with the hollow of the gantry 10 facing the floor. The gantry 10 then images the subject P by helical scanning while moving in the vertical direction. Note that the gantry 10 is not limited to helical scanning, and may also image the subject P by non-helical scanning in which scanning of the subject P and movement of the top board 33 are alternately performed, or may image the subject P by other methods.

[0044] The X-ray CT apparatus 1 may inject a contrast agent into the subject P when imaging the subject P. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 has an upper route 61 and a lower route 62 as injection paths for injecting a contrast agent into the subject P. That is, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 has an injection path for injecting a medicinal liquid into the subject P from at least one of the upper side and the lower side of the gantry device 10 in the vertical direction.

[0045] The upper route 61 is an injection path that extends from above the X-ray CT apparatus 1 toward the subject P. The upper route 61 has an apparatus-side tube 611, an air sensor 612, a connection sensor 613, a connection part 614, and a subject-side tube 615.

[0046] The lower route 62 is an injection path extending from the lower part of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 toward the subject P. The lower route 62 also includes an apparatus-side tube 621, an air sensor 622, a connection sensor 623, a connection part 624, and a subject-side tube 625.

[0047] Apparatus side tubes 611 and 621 are tubes connected to injector 70, which injects a contrast agent or the like into subject P. Apparatus side tubes 611 and 621 are tubes through which a medicinal liquid delivered from injector 70 passes.

[0048] For example, in the upper route 61, the device-side tube 611 passes through a member provided above the X-ray CT device 1 and heads toward the subject P. In addition, in the lower route 62, the device-side tube 621 passes through a member provided below the X-ray CT device 1 and heads toward the subject P.

[0049] The air sensor 612 detects air from at least one of the device-side tube 611 and the subject-side tube 615. Similarly, the air sensor 622 detects air from at least one of the device-side tube 621 and the subject-side tube 625. That is, the air sensors 612 and 622 detect air from the inside of at least one of the device-side tubes 611 and 621, through which a medicinal solution is injected into the subject P, and the subject-side tubes 615 and 625, in the injection path. The air sensors 612 and 622 are an example of an air detection unit. For example, the air sensors 612 and 622 detect air using an optical sensor. The air sensors 612 and 622 are provided on the subject support 50.

[0050] Connection sensor 613 detects that subject-side tube 615 is connected to connection section 614. Similarly, connection sensor 623 detects that subject-side tube 625 is connected to connection section 624. Connection sensors 613 and 623 detect that device-side tubes 611 and 621 on the side of injector 70, which injects a medicinal liquid into subject P, are connected to subject-side tubes 615 and 625 on the subject side in the injection path. Connection sensors 613 and 623 are an example of a connection detector. Device-side tubes 611 and 621 are an example of a first tube. Subject-side tubes 615 and 625 are an example of a second tube.

[0051] For example, the connection sensors 613, 623 detect the connection of the subject-side tubes 615, 625 using a microswitch. More specifically, the microswitch is arranged so that it is pressed by the subject-side tubes 615, 625 when the subject-side tubes 615, 625 are connected. The connection sensors 613, 623 detect the connection of the subject-side tubes 615, 625 based on whether the microswitch is pressed by the subject-side tubes 615, 625. The connection sensors 613, 623 are provided on the subject support 50.

[0052] The connection part 614 is a member that connects the device-side tube 611 and the subject-side tube 615. The connection part 614 may be formed as a part of the device-side tube 611 or the subject-side tube 615, or may be an independent member.

[0053] Similarly, the connection part 624 is a member that connects the apparatus-side tube 621 and the subject-side tube 625. The connection part 624 may be formed as a part of the apparatus-side tube 621 or the subject-side tube 625, or may be an independent member. The connection parts 614 and 624 are provided on the subject support part 50.

[0054] The subject-side tube 615 is a tube that is connected to the subject P. That is, the subject-side tube 615 is a tube with a needle to be inserted into the subject P attached to the end on the subject P side.

[0055] Similarly, the subject-side tube 625 is a tube connected to the subject P. That is, the subject-side tube 625 is a tube having a needle to be inserted into the subject P attached to the end on the subject P side.

[0056] In such a configuration, the injection control function 445 controls the injection of contrast media or the like by the injection device 70 .

[0057] More specifically, the injection control function 445 controls whether the liquid medicine is to be injected into the subject P through the upper route 61, which is an injection route on the vertically upper side of the gantry device 10, or the lower route 62, which is an injection route on the vertically lower side of the gantry device 10. The injection control function 445 is an example of an injection control unit. The upper route 61 is an example of a first injection route. The lower route 62 is an example of a second injection route. For example, based on the imaging conditions of the subject P, the injection control function 445 controls whether the liquid medicine is to be injected into the subject P through the upper route 61, which is an injection route from the vertically upper side of the gantry device 10 toward the subject P, or the lower route 62, which is an injection route from the vertically lower side of the gantry device 10 toward the subject P.

[0058] For example, the injection control function 445 controls whether to inject the liquid medicine into the subject P through the upper route 61 or the lower route 62, based on the posture of the subject P when imaging. For example, when imaging the subject P with his / her hands raised, the injection control function 445 determines that the liquid medicine should be injected into the subject P through the upper route 61. On the other hand, when imaging the subject P with his / her hands lowered, the injection control function 445 determines that the liquid medicine should be injected into the subject P through the lower route 62.

[0059] Furthermore, the injection control function 445 notifies the subject P of the route from the upper route 61 or the lower route 62 through which the liquid medicine will be injected into the subject P, based on the imaging conditions of the subject P by the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12. The injection control function 445 is an example of an injection notification unit. That is, for example, the injection control function 445 displays on the display 42 that the liquid medicine will be injected into the subject P from the upper route 61. Alternatively, the injection control function 445 displays on the display 42 that the liquid medicine will be injected into the subject P via the lower route 62.

[0060] The injection control function 445 also controls the injection of the medicinal liquid into the subject P based on the detection results of the sensors provided in the upper route 61 and the lower route 62.

[0061] More specifically, injection control function 445 determines whether the injection route is usable or not based on the detection result by connection sensor 613. That is, injection control function 445 determines whether apparatus-side tube 611 and subject-side tube 615 are connected and whether it is possible to flow the liquid medicine to subject P. Furthermore, if air is detected by air sensor 612, injection control function 445 does not inject the liquid medicine into subject P.

[0062] When injecting a liquid medicine into the subject P through the upper route 61, if the air sensor 612 does not detect air in the device-side tube 611 or the subject-side tube 615 and the connection sensor 613 detects a connection between the connector 614 and the subject-side tube 615, the injection control function 445 permits the injection of the liquid medicine through the upper route 61. In other words, if the air sensor 612 detects air in the device-side tube 611 or the subject-side tube 615 or if the connection sensor 613 detects a connection between the connector 614 and the subject-side tube 615, the injection control function 445 prohibits the injection of the liquid medicine through the upper route 61. For example, even if the injection control function 445 receives an instruction to start the injection of the liquid medicine, the injection control function 445 does not inject the liquid medicine.

[0063] Furthermore, when the air sensor 612 detects air in the device-side tube 611 or the subject-side tube 615, the injection control function 445 may display on the display 42 that air has been detected. Furthermore, when the connection sensor 613 does not detect a connection between the connector 614 and the subject-side tube 615, the injection control function 445 may display on the display 42 that the connector 614 and the subject-side tube 615 are not connected.

[0064] The injection control function 445 also executes the same control in the lower route 62 as in the upper route 61 .

[0065] More specifically, injection control function 445 determines whether the injection route is usable or not based on the detection result by connection sensor 623. That is, injection control function 445 determines whether apparatus-side tube 621 and subject-side tube 625 are connected and whether it is possible to flow the liquid medicine to subject P. Furthermore, if air is detected by air sensor 622, injection control function 445 does not inject the liquid medicine into subject P.

[0066] When injecting a liquid medicine into the subject P through the lower route 62, if the air sensor 622 does not detect air in the apparatus-side tube 621 or the subject-side tube 625 and the connection sensor 623 detects a connection between the connector 624 and the subject-side tube 625, the injection control function 445 permits the injection of the liquid medicine through the lower route 62. In other words, if the air sensor 622 detects air in the apparatus-side tube 621 or the subject-side tube 625 or if the connection sensor 623 detects a connection between the connector 624 and the subject-side tube 625, the injection control function 445 prohibits the injection of the liquid medicine through the lower route 62. For example, even if the injection control function 445 receives an instruction to start the injection of the liquid medicine, the injection control function 445 does not inject the liquid medicine.

[0067] Furthermore, when the air sensor 622 detects air in the device-side tube 621 or the subject-side tube 625, the injection control function 445 may display on the display 42 that air has been detected. Furthermore, when the connection sensor 623 does not detect a connection between the connection part 624 and the subject-side tube 625, the injection control function 445 may display on the display 42 that the connection part 624 and the subject-side tube 625 are not connected.

[0068] As described above, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment has the stand 20 that supports the gantry 10 and moves the gantry 10 in the vertical direction. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 has the upper route 61 or the lower route 62 through which a liquid medicine is injected into the subject P from at least one of the upper side and the lower side of the gantry 10 in the vertical direction.

[0069] For example, the medical staff can use the upper route 61 when the hand into which the needle for injecting the contrast agent is inserted is raised, and the lower route 62 when the hand into which the needle for injecting the contrast agent is inserted is lowered, thereby allowing the tube through which the contrast agent passes to be positioned outside the imaging area. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 can provide routes through which the contrast agent can be injected into the subject P who is in a standing or sitting position.

[0070] (Variation 1) 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the gantry 10 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the connection units 614 and 624 may be provided on the gantry 10. In addition, the air sensors 612 and 622 and the connection sensors 613 and 623 may be provided on the gantry 10.

[0071] More specifically, when the insertion direction of the subject P inserted into the gantry 10 is approximately parallel to the vertical direction, the air sensor 612, the connection sensor 613, and the connection part 614 of the upper route 61 are arranged on the upper side of the gantry 10. On the other hand, the air sensor 622, the connection sensor 623, and the connection part 624 of the lower route 62 are arranged on the lower side of the gantry 10.

[0072] Even in this case, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 injects the contrast agent from above or below into the subject P. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 can provide a route through which the contrast agent can be injected into the subject P who is in a standing or sitting position.

[0073] (Variation 2) The X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the second modification of the first embodiment may have at least one of the upper route 61 and the lower route 62. In other words, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 does not necessarily have to have the lower route 62.

[0074] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a gantry device 10 according to a second modification of the first embodiment. Fig. 4(a) shows a state in which the gantry device 10 is rotated in the tilt direction from Fig. 4(b). Fig. 4(b) shows a state in which the insertion direction of the subject P inserted into the gantry device 10 is approximately parallel to the vertical direction, and the upper route 61 is positioned facing the ceiling. Fig. 4(c) shows a state in which the gantry device 10 is rotated in the tilt direction from Fig. 4(b). Each of the positions in Fig. 4(a), (b), and (c) is a position when imaging the subject P in a standing or sitting position.

[0075] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a gantry device 10 according to a second modification of the first embodiment. Fig. 5(a) shows a state in which the gantry device 10 is rotated in the tilt direction from Fig. 5(b). Fig. 5(b) shows a state in which the insertion direction of the subject P inserted into the gantry device 10 is approximately parallel to the vertical direction, and the upper route 61 is positioned facing the floor surface. Fig. 5(c) shows a state in which the gantry device 10 is rotated in the tilt direction from Fig. 5(b). Each of the positions in Fig. 5(a), (b), and (c) is a position when imaging the subject P in a standing or sitting position.

[0076] 5, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 rotates the connecting portion 21 to rotate the gantry device 10. As a result, the upper route 61 is positioned in substantially the same position as the lower route 62. Therefore, even if the X-ray CT apparatus 1 does not have the lower route 62, the subject-side tube 615 can be directed toward the subject P from below the X-ray CT apparatus 1.

[0077] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the gantry 10 according to the second modification of the first embodiment. Fig. 6(a) shows a state in which the gantry 10 is rotated in the tilt direction from Fig. 6(b). Fig. 6(b) shows a state in which the insertion direction of the subject P inserted into the gantry 10 is approximately parallel to the floor surface, and the insertion direction of the subject P in the hollow of the gantry 10 is approximately parallel to the floor surface. Fig. 6(c) shows a state in which the gantry 10 is rotated in the tilt direction from Fig. 6(b). Each of the positions in Fig. 6(a), (b), and (c) is a position when imaging the subject P in a supine position.

[0078] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a gantry 10 according to a second modification of the first embodiment. Fig. 7(a) shows a state in which the gantry 10 is rotated in the tilt direction from Fig. 7(b). Fig. 7(b) shows a state in which the insertion direction of the subject P inserted into the gantry 10 is approximately parallel to the floor surface, and the insertion direction of the subject P in the hollow of the gantry 10 is approximately parallel to the floor surface, and the gantry 10 is rotated in the opposite direction from Fig. 7(b). Fig. 7(c) shows a state in which the gantry 10 is rotated in the tilt direction from Fig. 7(b). Each of the positions in Figs. 7(a), (b), and (c) is a position when imaging a subject P in a supine position.

[0079] 7, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 rotates the connecting portion 21 to rotate the gantry device 10. This allows the X-ray CT apparatus 1 to inject a contrast agent into the subject P in a supine position and perform imaging.

[0080] (Variation 3) The X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the third modification of the first embodiment has the lower route 62 out of the upper route 61 and the lower route 62. That is, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 does not necessarily have to have the upper route 61.

[0081] (Second embodiment) FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an injection device 70 according to the second embodiment.

[0082] Injection device 70 has a container that contains one or more medicinal liquids. Injection device 70 may also have one or more containers. Injection device 70 has a first output unit 71 and a second output unit 72. Apparatus-side tubing 611 of upper route 61 is connected to first output unit 71. Apparatus-side tubing 621 of lower route 62 is connected to second output unit 72. Thus, injection device 70 has upper route 61 that has apparatus-side tubing 611 connected to a container and subject-side tubing 615 that delivers medicinal liquid to subject P. Injection device 70 also has lower route 62 that has apparatus-side tubing 621 connected to a container and subject-side tubing 625 that delivers medicinal liquid to subject P.

[0083] For example, injection device 70 is supported by gantry 10. Note that injection device 70 may be supported not only by gantry 10 but also by stand 20 or by a member not shown. Furthermore, injection device 70 may be a device separate from X-ray CT apparatus 1.

[0084] 9 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of injection device 70. Injection device 70 has memory 711, display 712, input interface 713, injection mechanism 714, connection interface 715, and processing circuit 716.

[0085] Memory 711 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM or flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. Memory 711 stores, for example, projection data and CT image data. Memory 711 also stores, for example, programs that cause circuits included in injection device 70 to realize various functions. Memory 711 may also be realized by a group of servers (cloud) connected to injection device 70 via a network.

[0086] Display 712 displays various types of information. For example, display 712 displays various images generated by processing circuitry 716 and displays a GUI for receiving various operations from the operator. For example, display 712 is a liquid crystal display or a CRT display. Display 712 may be a desktop type, or may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with injection device 70 main body.

[0087] Input interface 713 may be implemented by a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, touchpad that performs input operations by touching the operation surface, a touchscreen that integrates a display screen and a touchpad, a non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, a voice input circuit, or the like. Input interface 713 may be provided in gantry 10. Input interface 713 may also be configured as a tablet terminal or the like that is capable of wireless communication with injection device 70. Input interface 713 is not limited to interfaces that include physical operation components such as a mouse and keyboard. For example, an example of input interface 713 is an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from injection device 70 and outputs the electrical signal to processing circuit 716.

[0088] The injection mechanism 714 pumps out a selected medicinal liquid from a container that contains one or more medicinal liquids. For example, the injection mechanism 714 includes a pump that pumps out the medicinal liquid contained in the container.

[0089] The connection interface 715 controls the transmission and communication of various data transmitted and received to and from the X-ray CT apparatus 1. For example, the connection interface 715 is realized by a network card, a network adapter, an NIC, or the like.

[0090] Processing circuitry 716 controls the overall operation of injection device 70. For example, processing circuitry 716 executes injection control function 7161 and replacement notification function 7162. For example, the processing functions executed by injection control function 7161 and replacement notification function 7162, which are components of processing circuitry 716 shown in FIG. 9, are recorded in memory 711 in the form of programs executable by a computer. Processing circuitry 716 is, for example, a processor, which reads and executes each program from memory 711 to realize the function corresponding to each read program. In other words, processing circuitry 716 in a state in which each program has been read has each function shown in processing circuit 716 in FIG. 9.

[0091] Injection control function 7161 has the same functions as injection control function 7161 according to the first embodiment. More specifically, injection control function 7161 controls whether to inject the liquid medicine into subject P through upper route 61 or lower route 62, based on the imaging conditions of subject P acquired from X-ray CT apparatus 1 via connection interface 715. For example, when subject P is in an upright position, injection control function 7161 controls injector 70 to send the liquid medicine from first output unit 71 to upper route 61. When subject P is in a sitting position, injection control function 7161 controls injector 70 to send the liquid medicine from second output unit 72 to lower route 62.

[0092] Furthermore, the injection control function 7161 controls the injection of the medicinal liquid into the subject P based on the detection results of the sensors provided in the upper route 61 and the lower route 62, respectively.

[0093] The replacement notification function 7162 notifies when it is time to replace the device-side tubes 611, 621. The replacement notification function 7162 is an example of a replacement notification unit. Here, the subject-side tubes 615, 625 are replaced for each subject P. On the other hand, the device-side tubes 611, 621 are not replaced for each subject P. Since they are not replaced for each subject P, medical personnel need to manage the replacement timing. Therefore, the replacement notification function 7162 notifies when it is time to replace the device-side tubes 611, 621.

[0094] Furthermore, the replacement time may be information indicating a time, or may be information indicating the number of corresponding subjects P. For example, the replacement notification function 7162 notifies the user that it is time to replace the device-side tubes 611, 621 when a set time has elapsed since the device-side tubes 611, 621 were connected. For example, the replacement notification function 7162 notifies the user that it is time to replace the device-side tubes 611, 621 when a medicinal liquid has been injected into a set number of subjects P since the device-side tubes 611, 621 were connected.

[0095] Next, the configuration of the tube from the container containing the liquid medicine to first output portion 71 or second output portion 72 in injection device 70 will be described.

[0096] 10 is a diagram showing an example of the tube connection configuration of an injection device 70 according to the second embodiment. The injection device 70 has a mixing connection part 73, an intermediate tube 74, a first valve 75, a first output tube 77, a second valve 76, and a second output tube 78.

[0097] Mixing connection part 73 is connected to a container containing a medicinal liquid that is a mixture of physiological saline and a contrast agent. Intermediate tube 74 is a tube with one end connected to mixing connection part 73 and the other end that is bifurcated. The other end of intermediate tube 74 is connected to first valve 75 and second valve 76.

[0098] The first valve 75 opens and closes the tube between the intermediate tube 74 and the first output tube 77. That is, the first valve 75 switches whether or not the chemical solution flows to the first output portion 71. For example, the first valve 75 is opened when the chemical solution is to be discharged from the first output portion 71. The first output tube 77 is a tube that connects the first output portion 71 and the first valve 75.

[0099] The second valve 76 opens and closes the tube between the intermediate tube 74 and the second output tube 78. That is, the second valve 76 switches whether or not the chemical solution flows to the second output portion 72. For example, the second valve 76 is opened when the chemical solution is to be discharged from the second output portion 72. The second output tube 78 is a tube that connects the second output portion 72 and the second valve 76.

[0100] With this configuration, injection device 70 discharges the liquid medicine from first output portion 71 or second output portion 72.

[0101] As described above, injection device 70 according to the second embodiment has first output unit 71 and second output unit 72. Injection device 70 also has upper route 61 extending from the vertically upper side of gantry 10 toward subject P, and lower route 62 extending from the vertically lower side of gantry 10 toward subject P.

[0102] This allows the medical professional to use upper route 61 when the patient holds the hand upright, through which the contrast agent is injected, and use lower route 62 when the patient holds the hand down, thereby allowing the tube through which the contrast agent passes to be positioned outside the imaging area. Therefore, injection device 70 can provide a route through which the contrast agent can be injected into subject P who is standing or sitting. The tube shown in FIG. 10 may be provided outside injection device 70. For example, mixing connection unit 73 may be connected to an output unit of an injection device having a unit output unit.

[0103] (Variation 1) FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a tube connection configuration of injection device 70 according to Variation 1 of the second embodiment. Injection device 70 may have the tube connection configuration shown in FIG. 11. With the tube connection configuration shown in FIG. 11, injection device 70 delivers contrast agent and saline in a separated state up to the vicinity of first output unit 71 and second output unit 72. This allows injection device 70 to output a mixed liquid with a changed composition ratio more quickly when the composition ratio of contrast agent and saline is changed than with the tube connection configuration shown in FIG. 10. Note that the tube configuration shown in FIG. 11 may be provided external to injection device 70.

[0104] The injection device 70 has a contrast agent connection portion 731, a saline connection portion 732, a first connecting tube 741, a first check valve 742, a second connecting tube 744, a second check valve 745, a cross tube 743, a first valve 75, a first output tube 77, a second valve 76, and a second output tube 78.

[0105] The contrast medium connector 731 is connected to a pump that delivers a contrast medium, and the saline solution connector 732 is connected to a pump that delivers saline.

[0106] First connecting tube 741 is a tube that connects contrast agent connecting portion 731 and first check valve 742. First check valve 742 is a valve that prevents the backflow of the medicinal liquid. In other words, first check valve 742 is a valve that prevents the medicinal liquid in crossing tube 743 from flowing into first connecting tube 741.

[0107] The second connecting tube 744 is a tube that connects the physiological saline connecting portion 732 and the second check valve 745. The second check valve 745 is a valve that prevents the medicinal solution from flowing back. In other words, the second check valve 745 is a valve that prevents the medicinal solution in the crossing tube 743 from flowing into the second connecting tube 744.

[0108] Crossover tube 743 is a tube into which the contrast medium flowing from first check valve 742 and the physiological saline solution flowing from second check valve 745 flow. Crossover tube 743 is connected to first valve 75 and second valve .

[0109] The first valve 75 opens and closes the tube between the cross tube 743 and the first output tube 77. That is, the first valve 75 switches whether or not the chemical solution flows to the first output portion 71. For example, the first valve 75 is opened when the chemical solution is to be discharged from the first output portion 71. The first output tube 77 is a tube that connects the first output portion 71 and the first valve 75.

[0110] The second valve 76 opens and closes the tube between the cross tube 743 and the second output tube 78. That is, the second valve 76 switches whether or not the chemical solution flows to the second output portion 72. For example, the second valve 76 is opened when the chemical solution is to be discharged from the second output portion 72. The second output tube 78 is a tube that connects the second output portion 72 and the second valve 76.

[0111] (Variation 2) FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the tube connection configuration of injection device 70 according to Variation 2 of the second embodiment. Injection device 70 may have the tube connection configuration shown in FIG. 12. With the tube connection configuration shown in FIG. 11, injection device 70 delivers contrast agent and saline in a separated state up to the vicinity of first output unit 71 and second output unit 72. This allows injection device 70 to output a mixed solution with a changed composition ratio more quickly when the composition ratio of contrast agent and saline is changed than with the tube connection configuration shown in FIG. 11. Note that the tube configuration shown in FIG. 12 may be provided external to injection device 70.

[0112] Injection device 70 has a contrast agent connection portion 731, a saline connection portion 732, a first branch tube 746, a second branch tube 747, a third valve 751, a fourth valve 752, a fifth valve 761, a sixth valve 762, a first connecting tube 771, and a second connecting tube 781.

[0113] The contrast medium connector 731 is connected to a pump that delivers a contrast medium, and the saline solution connector 732 is connected to a pump that delivers saline.

[0114] First branch tube 746 is a tube that branches into two. One end of first branch tube 746 is connected to contrast agent connector 731. The other end of first branch tube 746 is connected to third valve 751 and fifth valve 761.

[0115] The second branch tube 747 is a tube that branches into two. One end of the second branch tube 747 is connected to the physiological saline connection portion 732. The other end of the second branch tube 747 is connected to the fourth valve 752 and the sixth valve 762.

[0116] The third valve 751 opens and closes the tube between the first branch tube 746 and the first coupling tube 771. That is, the third valve 751 switches whether or not the chemical solution flows to the first output port 71. For example, the third valve 751 is opened when the chemical solution is to be released from the first output port 71.

[0117] The fourth valve 752 opens and closes the tube between the second branch tube 747 and the first coupling tube 771. That is, the fourth valve 752 switches whether or not the chemical solution flows to the first output port 71. For example, the fourth valve 752 is opened when the chemical solution is to be released from the first output port 71.

[0118] The fifth valve 761 opens and closes the tube between the first branch tube 746 and the second coupling tube 781. That is, the fifth valve 761 switches whether or not the chemical solution flows to the second output port 72. For example, the fifth valve 761 is opened when the chemical solution is to be released from the second output port 72.

[0119] The sixth valve 762 opens and closes the tube between the second branch tube 747 and the third coupling tube 772. That is, the sixth valve 762 switches whether or not the chemical solution flows to the second output port 72. For example, the sixth valve 762 is opened when the chemical solution is to be released from the second output port 72.

[0120] First coupling tube 771 is a tube into which the contrast medium flowing from third valve 751 and the physiological saline solution flowing from fourth valve 752 flow. First coupling tube 771 is connected to first output portion 71.

[0121] Second coupling tube 781 is a tube into which the contrast medium flowing from fifth valve 761 and the physiological saline flowing from sixth valve 762 flow. Second coupling tube 781 is connected to second output portion 72.

[0122] (Variation 3) FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a tube connection configuration of injection device 70 according to Variation 3 of the second embodiment. Injection device 70 may have the tube connection configuration shown in FIG. 13. With the tube connection configuration shown in FIG. 13, injection device 70 delivers contrast agent and saline in a separated state up to the vicinity of first output unit 71 and second output unit 72. This allows injection device 70 to output a mixed solution with a changed composition ratio more quickly when the composition ratio of contrast agent and saline is changed than with the tube connection configuration shown in FIG. 12. Note that the tube configuration shown in FIG. 13 may be provided external to injection device 70.

[0123] Injection device 70 has a contrast medium connection portion 731 , a saline connection portion 732 , a first connecting tube 741 , a second connecting tube 744 , a first check valve 742 , a second check valve 745 , and a third coupling tube 772 .

[0124] The contrast medium connector 731 is connected to a pump that delivers a contrast medium, and the saline solution connector 732 is connected to a pump that delivers saline.

[0125] First connection tube 741 is a tube that connects contrast medium connection portion 731 and first check valve 742. Second connection tube 744 is a tube that connects physiological saline connection portion 732 and second check valve 745.

[0126] First check valve 742 is a valve that prevents the chemical solution from flowing back. That is, first check valve 742 is a valve that prevents the chemical solution in first connecting tube 741 from flowing into first connecting tube 741.

[0127] Second check valve 745 is a valve that prevents the backflow of the medicinal liquid. That is, second check valve 745 is a valve that prevents the medicinal liquid in second connection tube 744 from flowing into second connection tube 744.

[0128] The third coupling tube 772 is a tube into which the contrast medium flows from the first check valve 742 and the physiological saline solution flows from the second check valve 745. The third coupling tube 772 is connected to the first output portion 71.

[0129] (Variation 4) The medical staff also replaces the apparatus-side tube 611 of the upper route 61. Here, the apparatus-side tube 611 faces the subject P from above the X-ray CT apparatus 1. In other words, the apparatus-side tube 611 is disposed at a high position. Therefore, it is difficult for the medical staff to replace the apparatus-side tube 611. Therefore, an exchange assisting member 63 for assisting in the exchange of the apparatus-side tube 611 may be attached to the apparatus-side tube 611.

[0130] 14 is a diagram showing an example of attachment of an exchange assisting member 63 according to Modification 4 of the second embodiment. The exchange assisting member 63 is a member that assists in the exchange of a used device-side tube 611 with a new device-side tube 611a. The exchange assisting member 63 is an example of a connecting member.

[0131] More specifically, the used device-side tube 611 is connected to the replacement assisting member 63. The replacement assisting member 63 is connected to a new device-side tube 611a. That is, the replacement assisting member 63 connects the used device-side tube 611 and the new device-side tube 611a. The medical staff then pulls the used device-side tube 611 from the injection device 70 side, with the used device-side tube 611 and the new device-side tube 611a still connected.

[0132] Because the tip of the new device-side tube 611a is connected to the used device-side tube 611, it reaches the injection device 70 via the same path as the used device-side tube 611. This allows the medical staff to easily replace the device-side tube 611a with a new one. This allows the medical staff to easily replace the device-side tube 611a even if it is located in a high position.

[0133] Next, a description will be given of the details of the exchange assisting member 63. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the exchange assisting member 63.

[0134] The device-side tube 611 has a connection part 614 at the end on the subject P side. The connection part 614 has an opening into which the subject-side tube 615 is inserted.

[0135] Here, the used device-side tube 611 contains the liquid medicine that was flowing through the device-side tube 611. Therefore, the replacement auxiliary member 63 has a closing part 631 that closes the end of the device-side tube 611 on the subject P side. The closing part 631 closes the connection part 614 by being inserted into the opening of the connection part 614.

[0136] Furthermore, the new device-side tube 611a needs to be kept clean. Therefore, the replacement auxiliary member 63 has a clamping portion 632 that clamps the outside of the new device-side tube 611a. Because the clamping portion 632 clamps the outside of the new device-side tube 611a, the condition of the inside can be maintained.

[0137] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it is possible to provide a route through which a contrast medium can be injected into a subject P in a standing or sitting position.

[0138] Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0139] 1 X-ray CT device 10 Mounting device 20 Stand 30 Bed Device 40 Console device 50 Subject support unit 61 Upper Route 62 Lower Route 63 Replacement auxiliary parts 70 Injection device 71 First output section 72 Second output section 44,716 Processing circuit 441 Control Functions 442 Pre-processing function 443 Reconstruction Processing Function 444 Image Processing Function 445, 7161 Injection control function 7162 Exchange notification function 611, 611a, 621 Device side tube 612, 622 Air sensor 613, 623 connected sensors 614, 624 Connection 615, 625 Subject side tube 631 Closing part 632 Clamping part P Subject

Claims

1. a gantry device having a cavity into which a subject is inserted, an X-ray tube that irradiates the cavity with X-rays, and an X-ray detector that detects the X-rays that have passed through the cavity; a support unit that supports the gantry device and moves the gantry device in a vertical direction; an injection path for injecting a medicinal solution into the subject from at least one of an upper side and a lower side of the gantry device in the vertical direction; An X-ray CT device comprising:

2. the support unit has a connecting unit that connects to the gantry device, The connecting portion rotates the gantry device in a tilt direction. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. an injection control unit that controls which of a first injection path, which is an injection path on the upper side in the vertical direction of the gantry device, and a second injection path, which is an injection path on the lower side in the vertical direction, is to inject the medicinal liquid into the subject; The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1 .

4. a connection detection unit that detects whether a first tube on an injection device side that injects the medicinal liquid into the subject and a second tube on the subject side are connected in the injection path; the injection control unit determines whether the injection path is available based on a detection result by the connection detection unit. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 3.

5. the injection path further includes an air detection unit that detects air from inside at least one of a first tube on an injection device side that injects the medicinal liquid into the subject and a second tube on the subject side; the injection control unit does not inject the medicinal liquid into the subject when air is detected by the air detection unit. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 3.

6. an injection notification unit that notifies the subject through which of a first injection path, which is an injection path on the upper side in the vertical direction of the gantry device, or a second injection path, which is an injection path on the lower side in the vertical direction, the drug solution should be injected into the subject, based on imaging conditions of the subject using the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector; The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1 .

7. the support unit supports an injection device that injects the drug solution into the subject. The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. a container containing one or more chemical solutions; a first injection path including a first tube connected to the container and a second tube for delivering the drug solution to the subject; a second injection path having a first tube connected to the container and a second tube for delivering the drug solution to the subject; An injection device comprising:

9. Further provided is a replacement notification unit that notifies the user when it is time to replace the first tube.

9. The injection device of claim 8.

10. the first tube is connected to a connecting member, The connecting member closes the end of the used first tube that is connected to the second tube, and clamps the outside of the end of the first tube that is to be used that is to be connected to the container.

10. An injection device according to claim 8 or 9.

Images